Do Cats Know That You Rescued Them?

Marissa Leotaud

Rescuing a precious kitty is life-changing. A rescued cat fills your house and your heart with love, laughter and a whole new world of adventures. Owners of rescued cats can tell you that their new furry friend, in a way, saved them as well. The rescue is always mutual as loving pets provide the best companionship and joy. As much as we humans relish in the event, do our cats share that same appreciation for the blessed occasion? Do cats know when they've been rescued?

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Cats can remember their lives before the rescue?

Studies show that cats have great memories. They remember important people even years after being around them and can recall details from their lives before being rescued. Animal Planet explains that once a cat attains information, by accident or trial and error, most of that information is retained for life due to a cat's excellent memory.

If a cat experienced trauma, these memories are hard to get rid of. A rescued cat may exhibit certain anxieties or phobias due to past distress. Once a cat is in a new, hopefully more loving situation, they will clearly know the difference between the past and the present.

Just like with negative memories, cats will remember the good times as well! Provide your rescued cat with lots of love (and patience) and she is sure to know she's been rescued. She should also have some great memories of your loving home for years to come. If your cat was rescued from a traumatic situation, consult with a veterinarian for a professional game plan on how to deal with any behavioral issues.

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Your rescue cat knows that you love her.

The greatest way your cat can tell you rescued her is by the endless love you give! Cats aren't usually known for being affectionate, but most cat owners agree that their feline friends accept and give love just like their canine counterparts.

Cats show affection when they meow, nuzzle up, sleep next to you, or walk in between your legs. When your cat purrs as you scratch her head or rub her belly (instead of hissing at you), this is how you know she's ready and willing to accept all of the love you have to give.

Studies show that cats specifically developed the "meow" in order to mimic the sound a human baby makes. Cats use this sound to communicate with humans, usually to get what they want, but also to express their love in a way we can understand. This love is a clear indication that she is now in a loving environment where she feels safe enough to give and receive affection.

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Conclusion

Cats have amazing memories and are sure to recall the good, the bad, and the ugly of their pasts. If you rescued your kitty from a traumatic situation, she is sure to tell the difference between how she was once treated and the patient and kind love found in her current home. Consult with a veterinarian for ways to alleviate a cat's anxiety or phobias until she's comfortable giving and receiving affection. If you show loving behavior to a cat, you are bound to be her favorite in no time, a beacon of hope and love in her life after rescue.